[Relapsed after ~3 years]

The addict inside me always tries to find a way to justify my behavior.

Just one game, just one hour, just one more hit, just read one article - any where it can get a hold of me.

One of the posts compares this to being an alcoholic and that's spot on.

Fight the good fight, stay strong in your mind, keep busy.

[Back from Relapse]

Relapse is that common they gave it a name.

It's just part of the process - annoying and FRUSTRATING as that might be, but it is what it is.

You mention the urge - can you define where it comes from? Does it stem from the emotional side of things like boredom/loneliness, frustration/anger or being a stay at home mom (hat off to you) are you tired? (I am lifting from this HOW TO QUIT THE POWER OF COMPUTER GAMING

When I fight with my girl my emotions go all over the place and I don't need a reason to relapse, I just want to escape, hence do.

The more I address my emotional state the quicker I heal.

[2 plus years. Gone in a flash.]

That's the ATTITUDE Get back up, which you have done, and fight the good fight!

Win at the game of life.

Wishing you the best.

[I feel depressed]

Both replies are amazing.

Addicts don't need a reason, we need opportunity. Like an alcoholic, gambler, etc.

Indeed it is the dopamine - just the rush and sensation which comes from it, but it is a falsehood to reality.

You mention boredom, temptation and another point which correlates wit this: The Complete Guide on Breaking Your Gaming Disorder

That is the emotional side of things. When I have a fight with my girl, the pain of the emotions which stir up inside make me want to escape, hence relapse.

I am slowly, ever so slowly, learning how to confront those emotions and reducing relapse.